Word

deism

noun C1

/ˈdiːɪz(ə)m/

Meanings

noun

belief in a creator who established the universe but does not intervene through miracles or direct revelation

Definition

Deism is the belief that a creator exists but does not intervene in the world through ongoing miracles or revealed religion.

Deism is a view about God that emphasizes reason and observation of the natural world. Deists generally believe in a creator who set the universe in motion but does not regularly interfere with human affairs. It often rejects religious authority based on miracles or special revelation, focusing instead on natural laws and rational inquiry.

Examples

In her thesis, she contrasts deism with revealed religions, arguing that reason alone can support belief in a creator.
I first encountered deism while reading Enlightenment writers who tried to reconcile faith with scientific thinking.
During the seminar, they debated whether deism allows for prayer if the creator never intervenes in events.
He described his deism as a quiet conviction shaped more by the order of nature than by ritual or scripture.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse deism with theism by saying deism involves an intervening God, but deism typically denies ongoing divine intervention.